Freesia Growth

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Freesia Growth

Overview

Freesias are summer-blooming flowers that grow from corms, which are a type of flower bulb. These flowers do not have a common name, but are called by their botanical name of freesia. Native to Africa, freesias are popular for their wide array of cheerful colors and very fragrant scent. Freesias last a long time after being cut, and are often used in corsages and flower bouquets to add beauty and scent.

Climate

Freesias enjoy mild to warm temperatures, which are similar to their native South African habitat. In fact, they can only be grown outdoors year-round in United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) growing zones 9 through 11, according to the American Horticultural Society. In cooler climates, freesias are often grown in containers and brought inside when freezing weather arrives.

Location

Freesias grow and flower best in full sunlight. Choose a planting site that is exposed to a full day's worth of sunlight. These flowers require a high intensity of light, according to Michigan State University. Freesias grow best in loamy soil rich in organic nutrients. The soil should be well-draining, as standing water will quickly rot the corms.

Planting

Plant outdoor freesia corms at a depth so that the tip of the corm is an inch below the surface of the soil, and about a 4 inches apart. They can be planted shallower and closer together when planted in containers--about six or seven can fit into one 5-inch pot, according to Michigan State University. Lightly cover the corms with a just enough soil to cover them up when planting them in containers.

Water and Fertilizer

Water when the top inch of soil dries out. Simply insert your finger into the soil to test for dampness. Once the flowers appear, fertilize the freesia with a water-soluble fertilizer designed for flowering plants. Apply according to the directions on the label as per the size and amount of your freesias. Reduce watering when the flowers wilt and begin to turn brown.

Problems

Freesias can become leggy and fail to bloom if they are not exposed to cool enough temperatures at night, according to the American Horticultural Society. They do best if the temperatures dip to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Indoor container plants should be located where they will be exposed to cooler evening temperatures. Outdoor plants in very hot climates should be planted in partial shade in order to provide cooler temperatures.

Keywords:
freesia growth, caring for freesia, growing freesia flowers

About this Author

April Sanders has been a professional writer since 1998. Previously, she worked as an educator and currently writes academic research content for EBSCO publishing and elementary reading curriculum for Compass Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in social psychology from the University of Washington and a master's degree in information sciences and technology in education from Mansfield University.